Search form

Search this site

Search for

More buzz about a possible "iPad mini" in September; New maps app

By Jim Karpenon Tue, 06/05/2012

There's a lot of buzz lately about Apple announcing a number of new products in September, including the new iPhone 5 and a 7.85-inch iPad mini. The source of the rumor for the iPad mini this time is market analyst Brian White, who recently ventured to Taiwan and got the scoop from sources in Apple's supply chain. White says that September promises to be an "exciting" month. You can read more on AppleInsider.

In addition, many sources have now reported that Apple will be coming out with a new Maps app — one that will no longer be based on Google's mapping service. The latest to report this development was yesterday's edition of the Wall Street Journal. Based on interviews with current and former employees, the WSJ said that Apple has been planning this move for years. The reason is that Apple apparently doesn't like being so dependent on another company for such a central app. Also, why cede to Google the ad revenue that the app generates? Also, Apple likely thinks it can do it better, and has purchased three cutting-edge map companies in recent years, allowing it to draw on some state-of-the-art technologies.

It's possible that the new maps app will be announced on Monday at WWDC. Anticipation is certainly building, as everyone wonders what Apple will come up with this time. A lot of rumors have surfaced in the past month, many of them emanating from an 18-year-old blogger on 9To5Mac. CNNMoney gives an overview of these rumors regarding what Apple will unveil.

Master your iPhone in one minute a day:

Sign up to iPhone Life's Tip of the Day Newsletter and we'll send you a tip each day to save time and get the most out of your iPhone or iPad.

Master your iPhone in one minute a day: Sign up here to get our FREE Tip of the Day delivered right to your inbox.

Jim Karpen holds a Ph.D. in literature and writing, and has a love of gizmos. His doctoral dissertation focused on the revolutionary consequences of digital technologies and anticipated some of the developments taking place in the industry today. Jim has been writing about the Internet and technology since 1994 and has been using Apple's visionary products for decades.

Tablift, the beloved iPad stand for hands-free lounging, is now available in white! Set your iPad up at any angle, in any position, on any surface. Tablift has four flexible legs that provide stability for your iPad on a couch or even in bed, and it works with any iPad and most tablets. Give your arms a break. Binge watch your favorite shows hands free from now on. With Tablift, you can work, watch movies, or play games on your iPad from anywhere.

The new iPhones are here, but Apple’s wireless charging pad won’t be around until next year. No worries; the MagicMount™ Charge by Scosche has you covered. It combines the latest in Qi wireless charging technology with the multi-award-winning MagicMount™ (#1 mount brand in the U.S.) system of magnetic, cradle-free, mobile device mounts. Available in three models, the MagicMount CHARGE magnetically holds your iPhone, making it easy to tap the screen and use your iPhone while it’s charging. The mount easily attaches to surfaces in your home, office, or vehicle with its StickGrip™ suction base for a strong hold, while also being removable. The MagicMount Charge works with your new iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, or iPhone X. Check out Scosche's full line of wireless and traditional mounts, and get the best for your new device.